Statewide Amber Alert Issued For 2 Missing Children in West Virginia

A statewide Amber Alert has been issued in West Virginia for two children, including an 18-day-old infant, according to local authorities.

The Madison County Illinois Sheriff’s Office and West Virginia State Police are looking for Katherine Derleth, 13, and her infant son Christopher Derleth, who both were last seen in Edwardsville, Illinois, on Sept. 18.

Katherine Derleth is described as being 4 feet and 8 inches tall, weighing about 95 pounds, and she has brown hair and brown eyes. Christopher is described as being 21 inches tall, weighing about 9 pounds, with brown hair and dark eyes.

Authorities believe the pair were abducted by the the girl’s stepfather, 39-year-old Christopher Derleth. The older man is described as being 6 feet and 1 inch tall, weighing 160 pounds, and he has brown hair and hazel eyes.

Officials suspect he’s driving a 1997 Green Mercury Villager minivan with the Illinois license plates E833210. The van was last seen on Interstate 77 South near mile marker 97 in West Virginia, according to the WV Emergency Management Agency in Charleston, reported the TristateUpdate.

The trio are believed to be traveling in a 1996 Mercury Villager Van with Illinois license plate number E833210. (Facebook)

If one has any information concerning the whereabouts of these children, contact the Madison County Sheriff’s Office at 618-692-4433 or call 911.

KSDK later reported Derleth has been charged with aggravated kidnapping and child abduction. If he’s convicted, he could face as many as 30 years in prison.

We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies, revised Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.More informationI accept×